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Caring for Someone with Dementia: Tips for Bathing and Hygiene Support

Maintaining personal hygiene is a vital part of overall health, but it can become more challenging for individuals with dementia. While it’s easy to encourage children or teens to shower, helping an adult family member—such as a parent or spouse—requires a more thoughtful and compassionate approach.

To offer guidance, we consulted Helle Brand, a physician assistant and dementia specialist at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. She shared key tips to support loved ones with dementia while preserving their dignity and comfort.

Know when help is needed

Recognizing when a loved one needs assistance with hygiene can be challenging, as dementia symptoms vary and may come and go. Brand pointed out some telltale signs that hygiene is slipping, such as body odor, unkempt hair or long nails. Gradual declines can be hard to notice, so check soap and shampoo supplies for signs they aren’t being used.

Gently offer help with tasks that may be difficult, such as washing hair or reaching their back. “You don’t have to take over everything at once,” Brand said. “Start with small steps to make both you and your loved one comfortable.”

Use a respectful tone

It’s easy to slip into a parental role when helping someone with dementia but treating an adult like a child can lead to resistance or frustration. Instead, speak with kindness and respect, and avoid a commanding or dismissive tone.

“Use collaborative statements, such as, ‘Let’s get cleaned up so we can enjoy the day,’” Brand suggested. “Appeal to their desire to look their best or gently remind them of an upcoming event.” Framing bathing as part of a pleasant routine can make it feel less stressful.

Create a comfortable setting

Bathing can feel unpleasant or overwhelming for people with dementia. You can help by making the experience as soothing as possible.

“It’s common for people with dementia to feel sensitive to temperature changes,” Brand explained. “Ensure the bathroom is warm and use water that’s a comfortable temperature.”

Other tips include:

  • Playing calming music
  • Using lightly scented soaps
  • Scheduling baths at the person’s best time of day
  • Offering choices, like bathing now or in a few minutes, to give them a sense of control

Focus on safety

Safety concerns are a common source of anxiety for people with dementia, but a few adjustments can make the bathroom a safer space. Consider adding:

  • Grab bars
  • Textured flooring or mats
  • A hand-held showerhead
  • A shower chair

These features can prevent falls, ease fears and make bathing more manageable for both of you.

Set your limits

Caring for someone with dementia is emotionally and physically demanding. It’s important to recognize when you need help.

“Family caregivers should monitor their own stress levels and listen to feedback from others,” Brand advised. “These can be your best cues to know when it’s time to seek professional support.”

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that asking for help is a sign of strength. Bringing in professional caregivers or exploring assisted living options can improve your loved one’s care and your overall well-being.

Additional resources for caregivers

Helping a loved one with dementia requires patience, creativity, and a strong support system. Explore more caregiving tips from the experts at Banner Health and schedule an appointment with your loved one’s primary care provider if you need personalized guidance.

Looking for more support? Listen to Banner Health’s Dementia Untangled podcast for expert advice and encouragement to help you navigate your caregiving journey.

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Content in this article was updated on January 27, 2025.

Alzheimers Disease and Dementia Caregiving Senior Health